Indian automaker Bajaj Auto $BAJAJELEC.NS, a key player in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of rare earth magnets, essential components for electric motors. China dominates over 90% of global production of these magnets, which are critical not only for EVs but also for clean energy technologies and household appliances. In April 2025, Beijing imposed export restrictions requiring companies to obtain special permits, disrupting supply chains and jeopardizing Bajaj Auto’s plans to scale up EV production by July.

A recent trade de-escalation between Washington and Beijing has set the stage for a surge in U.S. retail activity, particularly among major players like Walmart $WMT and prominent apparel brands. As summer promotional campaigns approach, American retailers are accelerating imports of Chinese-made seasonal merchandise, following a temporary reduction in U.S. tariffs on certain goods.

Apple Inc. $AAPL is heading into its quarterly earnings release on Thursday under the weight of intensifying geopolitical risk and internal delays in its artificial intelligence strategy. Wall Street analysts are bracing for a modest decline in iPhone sales, which would mark the company’s second consecutive quarterly dip—a rare streak for the tech titan.